Nose hair might not be the most glamorous part of your body, but it serves a crucial function: filtering out dust, pollen, and bacteria. While many people find long or visible nose hairs unsightly, it’s important to consider the risks of removing them by plucking.

Plucking your nose hairs can cause small wounds inside the nostrils, which can become infected. The nose is home to a network of sensitive blood vessels, and trauma from plucking can lead to issues such as irritation, swelling, or even more serious infections. If bacteria enter through the plucking site, it could lead to folliculitis — a condition where hair follicles become inflamed and painful.

One reason to avoid plucking nose hairs is the presence of what’s called the “danger triangle” of the face, which includes the nose and upper lip area. Infections here can spread more easily to the brain due to the blood supply connections, potentially leading to serious conditions like brain abscesses or meningitis.

Instead of plucking, consider trimming your nose hairs. Use small, rounded-tip scissors designed for this purpose or an electric nose-hair trimmer. These methods reduce the risk of irritation and infection while keeping your nose hair at a manageable length.

Nose hairs trap dirt, allergens, and other particles, preventing them from entering your respiratory system. Completely removing them can lower your body’s defenses against inhaled pollutants, increasing your risk of respiratory infections or allergies.

If you feel your nose hair is becoming unsightly, it’s safer to stick to trimming rather than plucking or waxing. Use the right tools, clean them thoroughly before use, and avoid removing too much hair to maintain your nose’s natural protective barrier.